The Threat of Nuclear War Has Us on the Precipice (Toby Ord)

A man's finger about to push a red button in a sophisticated command center illustrates the threat of nuclear war

Is the threat of nuclear war still a concern in today’s world? How close have we come to nuclear catastrophe? The looming specter of nuclear conflict remains a serious global issue. Toby Ord’s analysis in The Precipice highlights the devastating potential of nuclear weapons and our historical mishandling of this technology. Keep reading to discover the shocking realities of nuclear warfare and its potential impact on human civilization.

The Big Cycle: Ray Dalio Explains How World Orders Are Created

People in a book store in a section with a sign that says "HISTORY" illustrates the big cycle of world history

Is the world moving in predictable patterns? Can we learn from history to anticipate future events? Every 250 years or so, an empire falls and a new one rises. The big cycle, Ray Dalio says, helps us understand history and predict the future. Inside this big cycle are smaller cycles of economy, society, and geopolitics that help shape the world order. Keep reading for Dalio’s perspective on the cyclical nature of wealth, power, and global dynamics.

The Importance of Knowledge Sharing: 4 Benefits in Society

Two people talking to each other and showing the importance of knowledge sharing

What’s the importance of knowledge sharing? How does trade lead to cultural evolution? Matt Ridley says that humans’ distinguishing characteristic is our penchant for exchanging and accumulating knowledge. We don’t merely hoard knowledge; we share, combine, and build upon it. Let’s take a closer look at how powerful the practice of sharing knowledge can be.

Mediocre: Book Overview & Takeaways (Ijeoma Oluo)

A man sitting on a park bench and reading a book

Are you tired of seeing mediocre white men in positions of power? Have you ever wondered why this phenomenon persists in our society? Mediocre, a book by Ijeoma Oluo, explores the concept of white male mediocrity and its roots in white male supremacy. She examines how this dynamic shapes American society, from politics to education to sports. Continue reading for an overview of this book.

The Climate Change Risk: Is It the End of Earth’s Delicate Balance?

A globe balanced on a teetering rock in the woods illustrates the climate change risk

Are we on the brink of an existential catastrophe due to climate change? Could rising temperatures make Earth uninhabitable? Toby Ord’s analysis in The Precipice paints a stark picture of the climate change risk. He explores feedback effects, emission projections, and potential consequences of global warming. Ord’s work investigates the alarming possibilities if temperatures continue to rise unchecked. Continue reading for a sobering look at our planet’s future and what’s at stake.

Why Pseudo-Productivity Is an Outdated Concept (Cal Newport)

A man making widgets in a factory during the Industrial era illustrates pseudo-productivity

Are you worn out by constant busyness without seeing real results? Do you wonder if there’s a better way to measure productivity in today’s knowledge-based economy? In Slow Productivity, Cal Newport challenges the conventional wisdom about productivity in the modern workplace. He introduces the concept of pseudo-productivity, which values visible activity over meaningful outcomes. Keep reading to learn about this approach and why Newport believes it fails us today.

Was Housing Segregation an Effort to Protect White Identity?

Housing segregation is illustrated by a drawing of white houses on the left and black houses on the right

What are the long-lasting effects of housing segregation in America? Why did such a practice happen? In an exploration of white supremacy, Ijeoma Oluo dives into the history and consequences of housing segregation in the US. She examines how this practice emerged and how it continues to impact wealth distribution, urban landscapes, and social dynamics today. Keep reading to understand the ins and outs of housing segregation.

3 Types of Dystopian Futures: Toby Ord on Oppressive Societies

A sign on the side of the road in a mountainous area that says "DYSTOPIA AHEAD" illustrates dystopian futures

Are we heading toward a dystopian future? What can we learn from fictional dystopias to prevent real-world catastrophes? In The Precipice, Toby Ord writes that dystopian futures come in various forms, from enforced totalitarian regimes to unintended consequences of human actions. Writers and filmmakers have long explored these possibilities, offering insights into potential societal pitfalls. Keep reading to discover the three main types of dystopian futures and how they might unfold in our world.

3 Reasons Why People Are Following Nonlinear Career Paths

A cartoon of a man in a business suit on a road that winds for miles illustrates a nonlinear career path

Are you in a career rut? Do you wonder if there’s a better way to navigate your professional journey? The concept of a nonlinear career path is gaining traction in today’s rapidly evolving work landscape. Gone are the days of climbing a predictable corporate ladder. Instead, modern professionals are embracing a more fluid approach to career development. Keep reading to discover why this shift is happening.

3 Anthropogenic Threats to Humanity (Toby Ord’s The Precipice)

A fiery mushroom cloud from a nuclear bomb explosion illustrates anthropogenic threats to humanity

Are we on the brink of a human-made disaster? What catastrophic threats to our existence could be our own fault? Toby Ord’s book The Precipice explores the dangers posed by anthropogenic threats. He speculates on the potential consequences of nuclear weapons, climate change, and environmental damage. These human-driven risks could lead to civilization collapse or even extinction. Keep reading to get Ord’s take on these potential existential challenges.